Benson has new mule sculpture Submitted by TOWN OF BENSON
BENSON — Benson is excited to announce that the installation of its mule sculpture on the pedestal at the intersection of Highways 27 and 50 is now complete. This installation is the culmination of nearly a year of research and deliberation by the Benson Art Advisory Board. The mule — as an icon — was chosen for its obvious connection to the town and its farming heritage and the annual Mule Days celebration, and how the famed “stubborn” animal represents a drive into the future while also representing Benson’s roots. Greenville artist Jonathan Bowling, aided by Benson Public Works and the Benson Police Department for brief traffic control, finished installing the statue Sept. 21. Bowling is an accomplished sculptor. His commissioned works can be seen at the Public Sculpture Park in New Bern,
the Secret Garden Gallery in Ocracoke, the Chowan Arts Council in Edenton, and the Peninsula Fine Arts Center in Newport News, Virginia, among several other locations around the nation. His unique approach to sculpture utilizes scrap metal from old vehicles, farm equipment, discarded tools and structural components like steel rebar to form something new entirely, like Benson’s mule. Taking a closer look at his latest piece for the town, the complexity reveals itself. Bowling used wrenches for the mane and welded chain for the tail while cogs, gears, steel supports, machinery panels
[ NOVEMBER 2021 ] | 25
